Technical Sheet for Porcellio ornatus “High Yellow”
1. General Description
Common Name: High Yellow Isopod
Scientific Name: Porcellio ornatus “High Yellow”
Family: Porcellionidae
Order: Isopoda
Class: Malacostraca
Phylum: Arthropoda
Kingdom: Animalia
2. Morphology and Appearance
- Coloration: Porcellio ornatus “High Yellow” is characterized by a predominantly bright yellow body with black and grey patterns. The intensity of the yellow may vary, but it is noted for being vibrant.
- Size: Adults reach a length of between 1.5 and 2.2 cm.
- Body Shape: Dorsally flattened, with a segmented and rigid exoskeleton.
- Antennae: Two pairs of antennae, with the first pair being short and the second pair longer and more sensitive.
3. Distribution and Habitat
- Geographical Distribution: Native to Mediterranean regions, especially southern Europe.
- Natural Habitat: Commonly found in moist and shady environments such as under rocks, logs, and leaf litter. Prefers well-drained soils rich in organic matter.
4. Behavior and Ecology
- Diet: Detritivore, primarily feeds on decaying plant material but can also consume fungi and dead animal matter.
- Activity: Primarily nocturnal, seeking shelter during the day to avoid dehydration.
- Reproduction: Reproduction is ovoviviparous. Females carry the eggs in a ventral pouch until they hatch.
- Life Cycle: Development from egg to adult takes approximately 3 to 4 months. Longevity can reach up to 2 years under favorable conditions.
5. Captive Care Conditions
- Temperature: Optimal range between 20°C and 25°C.
- Humidity: Requires high humidity, preferably between 70% and 90%.
- Substrate: Suitable substrate composed of a mix of soil, coconut fiber, and dried leaves. It is important to keep it slightly moist but not soaked.
- Feeding in Captivity: Can be fed a varied diet including fresh vegetables, fruits, dried leaves, and occasionally specialized isopod food available in pet stores.
- Shelter: Provide plenty of hiding material such as bark, pieces of wood, and flat stones.
- Compatibility: Peaceful and sociable, can be kept in groups without aggression issues.
6. Health and Special Care
- Disease Prevention: Maintaining proper humidity and avoiding the accumulation of mold and fungi is crucial to prevent fungal infections.
- Health Observations: Require a clean environment. It is important to remove uneaten food to prevent health problems.
- Common Problems: Dehydration is the most common issue due to moisture loss in the environment.
7. Human Interaction
- Handling: It is recommended to handle them carefully, as although they are harmless, they can easily become stressed.
- Educational Use: Ideal for educational projects due to their easy care and interesting behavior.
